County unveils 'SD Emergency' mobile app

App sends info on wildfires, earthquakes

Copyright 2014 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

SAN DIEGO -

An app that delivers official information on emergencies to mobile devices was unveiled Thursday by the county of San Diego.

The SD Emergency application sends information on wildfires, earthquakes and other emergencies to iPhones, iPads, Android phones and tablets.

"Many people depend on smartphones and tablets to keep them connected to the world, and there's no more critical time to stay connected than during an emergency," said Board of Supervisors Chairman Ron Roberts.

He noted that the typical peak of wildfire season is just beginning. A blaze that began Sunday in rural East County killed an elderly man.

SD Emergency users can access maps, lists of shelters, volunteer opportunities and social media messages from the county and Cal Fire. The app also includes checklists for families to prepare for disasters.

"As government enters the world of apps, I promised during my State of the County address to make this public safety app our priority," Roberts said. "It is a great resource and I urge smartphone users to download SD Emergency today."

The app is available for free download at sdcountyemergency.com, or at the Apple App Store and Google Play store.

Copyright 2012 by City News Service. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.